July 2, 2008

Cummiskey Receives Award from Nation’s Governors

State CIO Recognized for Innovation, Government Transformation 

Based on the nomination of Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano, the National Governor’s Association recently awarded a 2008 Distinguished Service to State Government Award to State Chief Information Officer and GITA Director Chris Cummiskey. The award was based on his efforts to implement Governor Napolitano’s agenda for innovation and technology in the State.

State CIO Chris Cummiskey is presented the NGA Distinguished Service Award by Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano and NGA Chair and Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty.

"Chris has been a powerful agent for positive change in Arizona during his 17 years in public service," Governor Janet Napolitano said. "I have called upon Chris time and again to inspire government innovation and manage transformation initiatives. His strong leadership skills have led to the creation of Arizona 2-1-1, Arizona Health-e Connection, the Project Management Certification Program, and the Statewide Information Security and Privacy Office, just to name a few."
During his more than five years as State CIO, Cummiskey has distinguished himself through his ability to form powerful coalitions of business, education, non-profit, government and community stakeholders to transform government service delivery and implement innovative technology strategies.
“I’m honored to have been nominated by Governor Napolitano for this prestigious award,” said Cummiskey. “This recognition is a testament to Governor Napolitano’s strong vision for government innovation and transformation and the exceptional group of senior managers within GITA.”

Cummiskey was appointed State CIO in 2003. During his more than five years in that position, he has distinguished himself through his ability to form powerful coalitions of business, education, non-profit, government and community stakeholders to transform government service delivery and implement innovative technology strategies.

Cummiskey also served in the Arizona Legislature from 1991 to 2003 where he was recognized for his ability to work across the political aisle on issues ranging from education to public safety. During his tenure, he served as Assistant Senate Floor Leader, Senate Assistant Minority Leader and Chair of the Senate Democratic Caucus.

Cummiskey received the award at the centennial meeting of the National Governor’s Association. According to the NGA, the Awards for Distinguished Service to State Government allow governors to bring national recognition to their states' most valuable civil servants and private citizens. The awards emphasize the commitment of state administrators and the important contributions private citizens make to state government.